EASTON manager Chris Wilson has issued a warning to Chickerell United, saying his "players are not ready to relinquish their position at the top" of the Dorset Senior League.

The Portlanders are currently two points ahead of the Chickens at the summit and with both sides still unbeaten in the league tomorrow's local derby at Grove Corner (2.15pm) promises to be a humdinger.

Wilson said: "There is no pressure on us as we have set no goals this season.

"After a difficult campaign last season my players are enjoying their football but they are also not ready to relinquish their position at the top of the league.

"It's great to have two teams from our area battling it out at the top but our aim now is to build on what we have achieved and be top dogs in the area as well as in the league."

Chickerell boss Dave Drage has plenty of admiration for Easton but is confident his boys have what it takes to beat them.

He said: "Chris Wilson has done a good job. He has got a good squad of players and they have deserved the start they have had this season but we are on a good run as well and are reasonably confident."

Despite the implications the result could have on the title race, Drage has been working hard to play down the importance of the clash.

He said: "We have just got to approach it like it's another game.

Enjoy "Chris said last week after their match that it was good to see his players playing with smiles on their faces.

"I found that very interesting because as much as we all want to win games and be at the top of leagues, we also want everyone to enjoy their football.

"I have no doubt that both sides are really looking forward to the encounter."

When the two sides met at Cranford Avenue earlier in the season the game ended 2-2.

Drage added: "We made plenty of chances in that match but if you do not put the ball in the back of the net then that counts for nothing.

"Easton are a very hard working side and their striker Rob Maxted has been scoring a lot of goals lately but I am a firm believer that as long as we play to our strengths then we won't have to worry about the opposition.

"I am also confident that when we do things right we are a match for anyone."

Bryn Lewis and Ben Skelton will return to bolster Easton's squad while Graham Biles and Craig Roper are back in contention for Chickerell.

Chickerell (from): A Weeks, S Coombes, M Coombes, D Welch, Evans, Roper, Turrell, Smith, Etherington, Paice, Coltart, Miles, J Welch, Biles, Hall.

Easton (from): Anthony, Hughes, Kelly, Williams, Wallis, Reader, Oldrid, Gray, Carlile, Maxted, D Skelton, Lewis, B Skelton Burley.